The focus of this book is in the processing of signals derived from active array systems at their RF and intermediate frequencies, as opposed to earlier books that concentrate on signal processing at baseband. Systems and applications are covered first, followed by chapters dedicated to array antenna elements, transmit/receive (T/R) modules and beamformers. The book takes a holistic view of array systems performing radar, electronic warfare (EW) or communications functions, as well as remote sensing and radioastronomy. The gap is bridged between idealized and working phased arrays. The affordability of conventional active phased arrays is shown, along with the promise of less expensive intelligent or self-focusing/self-cohering arrays for the future.

Chapter 1 begins by defining phased array systems and their applications. The drivers for future array systems are clearly identified, as well as the need to evolve novel systems to meet specific needs. Chapter 2 details the theoretical infrastructure that allows a number of arrays to be characterized in terms of their topology and essential characteristics. Where the designer can safely ignore the effects of mutual coupling between adjacent antenna elements is also delineated. Chapter 3 considers the widely used reflector antennas and compares them to phased arrays. Multibeam reflectors are considered in detail, as well as approaches that permit simultaneous operation over two or more frequency bands. Chapter 4 covers T/R modules and the final power amplifiers, and the programmable phase shifters that allow the array to form a single beam in any direction within the array's capability are described in the final chapter.

This book is part of the Signal Processing and its Applications series, and covers the important front-end RF subsystems of active phased arrays. Engineers and scientists involved in radar and RF technology will find the text particularly enlightening, and post graduate students in electronics engineering will also find it interesting.

Microwave radar continues to evolve in both capability and complexity. This book provides a view of present technology and where this highly exciting field is headed in the future.

The book begins with a presentation of radar fundamentals and proceeds to describe radar imaging and the concepts of synthetic aperture radar (SAR), air-to-air radar, moving target indication (MTI), bistatic and low-probability of intercept (LPI) radar, and space-time adaptive processing (STAP). Other topics include imaging radar, pulse-Doppler and MTI radar, and special radars such as weather radar and ground-penetrating radar.

The book is divided into four parts. Part I begins by presenting the basic radar equation, radar antennas and electronics, signal propagation, radar target cross sections, noise effects, target detection, the radar ambiguity function, pulse compression, radar accuracy and monopulse operation. The second part applies the principles to a rotating target or a fixed target observed by a moving radar (SAR) to develop the concept of radar imaging. The fixed-radar-rotating-target case, also known as inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR), is also covered in detail.

Part III discusses pulse-Doppler radar concepts, and includes discussions of phase noise, and the use of several pulse-repetition frequencies with the Chinese Remainder Theorem to resolve range and velocity ambiguities. The use of radar to detect moving targets on the ground and in the air is also covered. Part IV covers special topics of interest in modern radar analysis, including STAP, bistatic radar, weather radar and ground-penetrating radar.

This book is an excellent text for students of radar technology, as well as a refresher for the seasoned radar engineer. It provides an understanding and perspective of the advances anticipated for radar technology in the future.